Hiking safety
A good trip depends on preparation and on people looking out for one another. This page is a practical starting point. Before setting out, the guide will brief the group on the hazards, equipment and movement plan for the specific route.
Before meeting the group
- Read the route description and consider the length of walking days, terrain and fitness needed. If you are unsure whether the effort is suitable, discuss it with the guide in advance and seek medical advice where appropriate.
- Tell the guide privately about information that may affect safety, such as relevant health limits, allergies, medication or experience. Avoid sharing sensitive details in a group chat.
- Bring footwear already used on long walks, clothing for the forecast, sun and rain protection, a headlamp, a charged phone and your personal medication. Follow the equipment list for your particular departure.
- Consider insurance that covers the activities planned. Leave someone at home the itinerary and the organizer’s contact details. Keep documents and money protected from water and loss.
Moving with the group
- Agree with the guide on pace, regrouping points and stop signals. Keep the people ahead and behind within sight, follow the agreed order and do not walk off the trail alone.
- Before stepping away from the group — to reach water, a viewpoint or somewhere near camp — tell the guide and wait for a reply. Do not take shortcuts on your own.
- Loose stones, roots, old structures and exposed edges need care. Stay behind barriers and do not test unstable ground for a photograph.
- In strong sun, protect your head and skin, take breaks and drink in response to the weather and your own needs. Do not rely on an unverified water source; use the replenishment plan provided by the guide.
- Tell the guide promptly about pain, weakness, dizziness, overheating, blisters or damaged equipment. An early warning gives the group time to adjust its pace or plan.
Coastal trails, heat and natural areas
On southern and coastal routes, sun, heat, wind and terrain can affect people and trail conditions quickly. Follow the guide’s current instructions, local restrictions and official warnings. Do not enter the water alone, in poor conditions or where swimming is prohibited. Swim only when it has been allowed and arranged for the group.
Keep away from unfamiliar animals; do not handle snakes or insects, or eat unknown plants or mushrooms. Make a fire only where it is both legal and safe. In dry weather or under a local fire ban, do not use an open flame. Take all rubbish with you and leave natural and historic sites undamaged.
If plans change unexpectedly
- Tell the guide immediately about an injury, a sudden change in how you feel, missing equipment or a hazard. Do not hide symptoms or take another person’s medication.
- If separated from the group, stop somewhere safe, call the guide using the number shared at the briefing and follow their directions. Do not try to catch up along an unfamiliar route.
- If someone faces an immediate threat to life, contact the local emergency service and tell the guide your location. Stay reachable while help is arranged. Do not move an injured person if the location is safe and there is no immediate need to do so.
Do not use alcohol or substances that affect attention and coordination during the trip. Do not handle unfamiliar technical equipment without the guide’s explanation and permission. A responsible adult must keep children nearby and help them follow the group’s safety instructions.
In short: report problems early, stay with the group unless the guide agrees otherwise, and ask questions before a situation becomes unsafe.